Hort16A (Zespri Gold) kiwi plant

Hort16A, marketed as Zespri Gold, is the most well-known golden kiwi variety. It is notable for its smooth (short silky hair), bronze skin and bright yellow flesh, which has a tropical, sweet flavor that differentiates it from the traditional green-fleshed varieties.

Golden kiwifruit generally requires similar climatic conditions to fuzzy kiwifruit but is slightly more tolerant of warmer temperatures. However, it is also more susceptible to diseases like Pseudomonas syringae, which can impact yield. Hort16A blooms four weeks ahead of Hayward. Some possible pollinizers for Hort16A are the Hortkiwi Meteor and Hortkiwi Sparkler.

The Zespri Gold variety has become increasingly popular due to its sweeter taste and visual appeal. It commands a premium price in the market and is primarily grown in New Zealand, with expanding cultivation in other regions such as Europe and China.